Charging Extra for Cleanups and One Timers

I get calls all the time for tall grass cleanups...you know, lawns that should have been cut three times since the last time. Grass 8 to 10" high and thick. I welcome these actually.

Often, folks seeking a price include a statement like, "we need someone to mow on a regular basis". Sometimes this is true, but often it's just a ploy to get you to bust your *** the first time at a 'regular' price in order that you can earn their business in the future.

Let me give you newbies a bit of advice from a seasoned veteran. Charge a bunch for the initial cleanup, then give them a reasonable 'regular' price for work going forward.

The reason is twofold. Cleanups are hard on equipment and personel. They take a lot of time to do without making or leaving a mess. Usually more time than you planned.

Second, every deal stands on it's own. It's a time honored business principle. Too many times doe-eyed mowing newbies with a new piece of equipment to pay for will take on a cleanup at a low price to 'earn' the prospect of an ongoing relationship....only to receive a call two or three days later telling them that their services will not be needed after all.

Don't get caught in this trap! I charge between $1 and $2 a minute for cleanups...minimum. That's one man and a 60" Turf Tracer.

I wouldn't say that I charge more, as much as I charge a little less for clean-ups for regular customers. New accounts and one time mowing for extra tall grass is usually charged double what it would be if it was 4-5".